RAF Lakenheath PAS Refurbishment
RAF Lakenheath is the first permanent home in Europe of the US Air Force F-35 Fighter Jet. The Protective Aircraft Shelters (PAS) Refurbishment Project is being carried out in eight phases, over a five-year period. Works involve a multitude of disciplines being undertaken on numerous shelters, originally constructed in the 1970's and in need of an upgrade. Working in a live military airbase environment presents a number of logistical challenges; however, the phases are being carried out through a carefully orchestrated programme of work, ensuring disruption is minimised.
Mechanical works on the project comprise the installation of a ducted extractor system, while the electrical works include the installation of new supplies for each building, from a private distribution substation, along with new switchgear and distribution boards, new power supplies to specialist communications and high security equipment, and new internal, external and emergency lighting systems.
The team are cleaning and treating the internal surfaces of each PAS, appling anti-corrosion and anti-condensation paint, and re-laying specialist floor coatings and joint sealants, as well as working on each of the nearly 100 tonne main doors, with particular focus on the improved door motor drive units. The team are also overhauling the concrete jet exhaust efflux chambers and external areas, and re-instating new material, to re-create the original finishes.
The work delivered on this contract will enable the use of the Protective Aircraft Shelters by aircraft for many years to come.